Derry man charged with series of offences remanded

A man has been remanded in custody at Derry Magistrates Court charged with trespassing, theft, assault, making threats to kill, making threats to destroy property, abusive behaviour, harassment and misuse of public communications.

Rory Gallagher (42) of Leafair Park in Derry was charged with the alleged offences that took place between March 5 and 8, all against his former partner.

Police told the court that they originally spoke with the victim on October 6 about Gallagher when she told them of how he had begun to act possessive since their separation, accusing her of cheating on him.

The victim had asked Gallagher to stop contacting her but he continued to make 31 phone calls of an abusive nature and 77 texts in a short period of time. 

Police were later called on March 7 when the victim said that Gallagher had called her repeatedly, threatening to slit her throat. Gallagher was then said to have come in through the back door and began shouting abuse before headbutting her.

The victim's son with Gallagher was also present and both made witness statements.

Gallagher answered 'no comment' when interviewed.

Police objected to bail as this was Gallagher's second set of offences involving the same victim and they believe that he is at clear risk of reoffending.

Defence solicitor Seamus Quigley said that Gallagher has no record but said he knew the charges would cause 'great concern' to the court.

District Judge Barney McElhom asked why Gallagher thought he had 'the right to enter her home, assault and insult her', refusing bail.

He will appear again on April 4.